Also referred to as Mamallapuram, Mahabalipuram is a town around 60 km away from Chennai in Tamil Nadu. Dating back to the time of Periplus and Ptolemy, it was a busy seaport and till date has ancient historical significance associated with it. Offering a panorama of ratha-like structures (temples in the form of chariots), mandapas (cave sanctuaries), huge open-air rock reliefs and the Shore Temple which glorifies Lord Shiva,it has been classified as a major UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Some major attractions of Mahabalipuram
Thirukadalmallai Temple
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple was built by Pallava King to protect the architectural structures and sculptures from corrosion by the ocean. The whole area of the temple has huge structures carved straight from the rock in the central hillside area and the scenic beauty amidst hills is breath-taking. The design incorporates smooth rock rising out of the forest and carved stairways leading between the mandapas (pavilions), caves and carvings.
Descent of the Ganges
It is a giant open-air rock relief.
Krishna's Butterball
A giant natural rock perched on a hillside is a delight for visitors as they can capture themselves placing their hands under the stone imitating to hold it.
The Five Rathas
Dating back to the 7th century, these five rathas (chariots) are five monolithic pyramidal structures named after the Pandavas namely Arjuna, Bhima, Yudhishtra, Nakula and Sahadeva along with Draupadi.The entire sculptural magnificence also has enormous stone animals and are carved from a huge singular piece of stone.
The Shore Temple
Built around 700 AD and existing for more than 1400 years, this temple is home to Shiva Lingam enshrined in the central building. It has intricate structural designs along the Bay of Bengal with the entrance from the western side of the sea.
Mahishamardini Cave
It contains carvings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati along with Murugan.
Tiger Cave
It has a Hindu temple noted for its tiger carvings. Also, the entrance to the temple is through the mouth of the cave.
Varaha Cave
It has four impressive carvings of Lord Vishnu, Gakalakshmi, Trivikama and Goddess Durga.
Shopping in Mahabalipuram
Stone sculptures, soapstone handicrafts, wood carvings and sea-shell articles and jewellery made by local artists are famous shopping items from Mahabalipuram.
How to Reach
Mahabalipuram is well connected by air through Chennai International Airport and by rail via Chengalpattu.
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